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Submerged
From the international bestselling author that brought you CHILDREN OF THE FOG comes a terrifying new thriller that will leave you breathless…
Two strangers submerged in guilt, brought together by fate…
After a tragic car accident claims the lives of his wife, Jane, and son, Ryan, Marcus Taylor is immersed in grief. But his family isn't the only thing he has lost. An addiction to painkillers has taken away his career as a paramedic. Working as a 911 operator is now the closest he gets to redemption—until he gets a call from a woman trapped in a car.
Rebecca Kingston yearns for a quiet weekend getaway, so she can think about her impending divorce from her abusive husband. When a mysterious truck runs her off the road, she is pinned behind the steering wheel, unable to help her two children in the back seat. Her only lifeline is a cell phone with a quickly depleting battery and a stranger's calm voice on the other end telling her everything will be all right.
Two strangers submerged in guilt, brought together by fate…
After a tragic car accident claims the lives of his wife, Jane, and son, Ryan, Marcus Taylor is immersed in grief. But his family isn't the only thing he has lost. An addiction to painkillers has taken away his career as a paramedic. Working as a 911 operator is now the closest he gets to redemption—until he gets a call from a woman trapped in a car.
Rebecca Kingston yearns for a quiet weekend getaway, so she can think about her impending divorce from her abusive husband. When a mysterious truck runs her off the road, she is pinned behind the steering wheel, unable to help her two children in the back seat. Her only lifeline is a cell phone with a quickly depleting battery and a stranger's calm voice on the other end telling her everything will be all right.
276 pages, Paperback
First published February 20, 2013
204 people are currently reading
1469 people want to read
About the author
Cheryl Kaye Tardif
29 books384 followershttp://www.cherylktardif.com
http://www.whalesongbook.com
http://www.cherylktardif.blogspot.com
Contact Cheryl: cherylktardif at shaw.ca
I am an avid reader and an international bestselling suspense author. My novels are often cross-genre works that fall into the categories of suspense, mystery or thriller.
My books have been compared to works by Stephen King, Jodi Picoult, Sue Monk Kidd, J.D. Robb, Kay Hooper, James Patterson, Dan Brown, and Michael Crichton.
I am always asked that one question: "Cheryl, what do you do?"
My reply: "I kill people off for a living." ;) CKT
http://www.whalesongbook.com
http://www.cherylktardif.blogspot.com
Contact Cheryl: cherylktardif at shaw.ca
I am an avid reader and an international bestselling suspense author. My novels are often cross-genre works that fall into the categories of suspense, mystery or thriller.
My books have been compared to works by Stephen King, Jodi Picoult, Sue Monk Kidd, J.D. Robb, Kay Hooper, James Patterson, Dan Brown, and Michael Crichton.
I am always asked that one question: "Cheryl, what do you do?"
My reply: "I kill people off for a living." ;) CKT
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews
February 20, 2016
Submerged is a sort of lite thriller. The nonalcoholic beer of thrillers. It's suppose to be a suspense murder (well, attempted murder) mystery, but instead falls over into a cheesy romance territory, which is something that happens all too often with female genre authors. It has some redeeming qualities, it's very readable, especially if you're in a mood for an easy read. It doesn't particularly stun of challenge, but Tardif does make an admirable effort to surprise her readers with a twist or two. The rescue scene in the middle of the book is easily the best part and is actually quite decent and well paced, the rest is almost straight up chicklit. It's also overexplained, with heavy handed metaphors and the aforementioned cheese, lots of it. This is very much a clichéd story seemingly made to become a Lifetime tv movie. Not a terrible reading choice, just an utterly uninspired one. Quick read, though.
April 2, 2013
As I stated in my status update, I picked this up off the Kindle freebie list, I had never heard of Cheryl Tardif and I wasn't sure what to expect. The synopsis sounded alright, but so have a few atrocities I have picked up from the freebie list as well. I would classify this as a novella rather than a book as it is not even 300 pages, there were a few editing problems, but nothing that was to distracting.
The writing and the story telling were both pretty good, very descriptive and the character development was okay for a story of this length. You could tell that the author actually did do some research and didn't just make some crap up to throw a story together. I really enjoyed the story and the characters, it had a nice even flow all the way through and didn't bog down anywhere. It is a nice supernatural/suspense that was done very well.
Over all I am very impressed and will be looking for more works by this author to add to my TBR shelf.
The writing and the story telling were both pretty good, very descriptive and the character development was okay for a story of this length. You could tell that the author actually did do some research and didn't just make some crap up to throw a story together. I really enjoyed the story and the characters, it had a nice even flow all the way through and didn't bog down anywhere. It is a nice supernatural/suspense that was done very well.
Over all I am very impressed and will be looking for more works by this author to add to my TBR shelf.
March 24, 2013
My sister and I share book recommendations and this is one of the books she asked me to check out. Well, she has yet to disappoint. Incidentally, she is from Canada, where this novel was set.
I had thought the story was going to end after the first dramatic rescue with the victim and rescuer falling in love, but that wasn't even halfway through the book (not so much the falling in love). Throw in a confusing lineup of suspects, personal issues, supportive friends and family, and this romance thriller ran for some more exciting chapters.
Part of me finds the story typical, but then again, "ordinary" is often more attractive. As long as it can keep me reading, as long as it holds my attention, all is good for me.
I had thought the story was going to end after the first dramatic rescue with the victim and rescuer falling in love, but that wasn't even halfway through the book (not so much the falling in love). Throw in a confusing lineup of suspects, personal issues, supportive friends and family, and this romance thriller ran for some more exciting chapters.
Part of me finds the story typical, but then again, "ordinary" is often more attractive. As long as it can keep me reading, as long as it holds my attention, all is good for me.
July 31, 2018
I would give this book 3.5 stars, and I'm feeling generous today so I'm rounding up to 4. :-)
I enjoyed the story and the characters. There is a lot of struggle, both internal and with outside forces. I like how the author dealt with these issues. I will say that I pegged the villain right away...but not from anything in the story really - it's hard to explain, more of my jaded view of things!
I would like to read more by this author.
I enjoyed the story and the characters. There is a lot of struggle, both internal and with outside forces. I like how the author dealt with these issues. I will say that I pegged the villain right away...but not from anything in the story really - it's hard to explain, more of my jaded view of things!
I would like to read more by this author.
March 2, 2013
As most of my regular readers know, I am a writer. What they might not know is that writers have a tendency to dissect books that they read; it is part of our search as professional readers (because you have to be a reader to be a writer) to find the perfect formula for writing the perfect book. Not so thay we can copy that book, but so that we can write the perfect book that lays within ourselves.
Towards this quest to find the perfect book within ourselves, we tend to collect books that we consider examples of a perfect book written by someone else. Tonight, I am adding another book to my small collection of perfect books.
Submerged (by Cheryl Kaye Tardif) is an good example of a perfect book. The cover is perfect for the story that it advertises. The pacing is perfect with just the right amount of new information being given, and new questions being placed in play. The chapters are the right size--just big enough to satisfy, yet short enough that one is tempted to read just one more chapter...and then another. The symbolism used supports both the plot and the characters. Submerged is a good example of a perfect book.
(I wish that I was as good of a writer as Cheryl is.)
My only concern with it is that some of the culture references might age quickly, and I am not sure if that can be helped given the speed that our culture changes at.
Submerged is a hard book to put into a category. It is about half romance, half suspense, and a quarter supernatural (yes, math is not my friend); it also a tale of addiction, fall, and redemption. I quite enjoyed reading it.
If you didn't already guess, I am giving this book five stars and two big thumbs up. This book is going to be enjoyed by both regular readers and those picky writers.
[Disclosure notice: This review is based on a pdf that the author provided me.]
Towards this quest to find the perfect book within ourselves, we tend to collect books that we consider examples of a perfect book written by someone else. Tonight, I am adding another book to my small collection of perfect books.
Submerged (by Cheryl Kaye Tardif) is an good example of a perfect book. The cover is perfect for the story that it advertises. The pacing is perfect with just the right amount of new information being given, and new questions being placed in play. The chapters are the right size--just big enough to satisfy, yet short enough that one is tempted to read just one more chapter...and then another. The symbolism used supports both the plot and the characters. Submerged is a good example of a perfect book.
(I wish that I was as good of a writer as Cheryl is.)
My only concern with it is that some of the culture references might age quickly, and I am not sure if that can be helped given the speed that our culture changes at.
Submerged is a hard book to put into a category. It is about half romance, half suspense, and a quarter supernatural (yes, math is not my friend); it also a tale of addiction, fall, and redemption. I quite enjoyed reading it.
If you didn't already guess, I am giving this book five stars and two big thumbs up. This book is going to be enjoyed by both regular readers and those picky writers.
[Disclosure notice: This review is based on a pdf that the author provided me.]
February 28, 2013
Cheryl Kaye Tardif has done it again, another great suspense thriller.
Marcus Taylor was an EMT, but due to a drug addiction problem, became a 911 operator to continue to try to help people. How ironic that an EMT would not be able to save his wife and child after their vehicle crashed.
Rebecca Kingsley was the wife of an abusive husband, but luckily he never hit his children, but that fear made Rebecca decide to divorce him, among other reasons, like his gambling problem and infidelity.
When Rebecca is run off the road, she called 911. Marcus was on duty and answered her distress call. With a busy night and all emergency vehicles elsewhere, he decided to break a few rules and attempt to find and rescue Rebecca and her children.
But who would want to kill Rebecca, and why? The first suspect is always the husband, thought Rebecca doubted it could be him, no matter how violent he could get towards her, and no matter how unhappy the divorce was going to make him. If it isn’t the husband, then who is it?
Great mix of characters to keep it real. Marcus, a recovering drug addict, his best friend , Leo, with a past of his own. Rebecca, an abused woman with two children, the presence of Jane and Ryan, Marcus’ beloved wife and son.
Definite page turner. Keeps the suspense of trying to determine who is behind it all. Plus the emotions of an EMT who lost his job from his abuse of drugs, the death of his wife and child, Rebecca and her abuse and fear for her children. A must-read for anyone who loves suspense.
Marcus Taylor was an EMT, but due to a drug addiction problem, became a 911 operator to continue to try to help people. How ironic that an EMT would not be able to save his wife and child after their vehicle crashed.
Rebecca Kingsley was the wife of an abusive husband, but luckily he never hit his children, but that fear made Rebecca decide to divorce him, among other reasons, like his gambling problem and infidelity.
When Rebecca is run off the road, she called 911. Marcus was on duty and answered her distress call. With a busy night and all emergency vehicles elsewhere, he decided to break a few rules and attempt to find and rescue Rebecca and her children.
But who would want to kill Rebecca, and why? The first suspect is always the husband, thought Rebecca doubted it could be him, no matter how violent he could get towards her, and no matter how unhappy the divorce was going to make him. If it isn’t the husband, then who is it?
Great mix of characters to keep it real. Marcus, a recovering drug addict, his best friend , Leo, with a past of his own. Rebecca, an abused woman with two children, the presence of Jane and Ryan, Marcus’ beloved wife and son.
Definite page turner. Keeps the suspense of trying to determine who is behind it all. Plus the emotions of an EMT who lost his job from his abuse of drugs, the death of his wife and child, Rebecca and her abuse and fear for her children. A must-read for anyone who loves suspense.
September 13, 2015
Rebecca needs a couple of days to rest and be alone while she waits for her husband to sign the divorce papers so she arranges for her sister to look after her two children. Just before she is ready to leave, her sister says she can't look after the kids so Rebecca takes them with her.
On the way to her "vacation" spot, she is pushed off the road ending with the front of her car in the river. She calls 911 and gets Marcus who used to be an EMT but lost that job because of his drug addition problem. Still wanting to help people, he became a 911 operator.
Lucky for Rebecca, Marcus didn't always follow the rules. It was a busy night so there was only one police car available to search for Rebecca and her children. Marcus knew that wasn't enough and they didn't have much time, so he went to look for them himself.
I loved the characters in Submerged. Poor Marcus had gone through so much with loosing his wife and son in an accident. He tried to handle the loss by taking drugs which caused him to lose his job. Then we have Rebecca who has lived with an abusive husband for way too long. There was nothing good about this guy. He also had a gambling problem and cheated on her.
This was a well written, fast paced suspense that I highly recommend. I realy like books that I can't figure out who dunnit before the end. In Submerged I was actually surprised to learn who was trying to kill Rebecca.
On the way to her "vacation" spot, she is pushed off the road ending with the front of her car in the river. She calls 911 and gets Marcus who used to be an EMT but lost that job because of his drug addition problem. Still wanting to help people, he became a 911 operator.
Lucky for Rebecca, Marcus didn't always follow the rules. It was a busy night so there was only one police car available to search for Rebecca and her children. Marcus knew that wasn't enough and they didn't have much time, so he went to look for them himself.
I loved the characters in Submerged. Poor Marcus had gone through so much with loosing his wife and son in an accident. He tried to handle the loss by taking drugs which caused him to lose his job. Then we have Rebecca who has lived with an abusive husband for way too long. There was nothing good about this guy. He also had a gambling problem and cheated on her.
This was a well written, fast paced suspense that I highly recommend. I realy like books that I can't figure out who dunnit before the end. In Submerged I was actually surprised to learn who was trying to kill Rebecca.
March 3, 2013
Submerged is a thriller/mystery standalone. You meet Marcus Taylor and Rebecca Kingston who both have tormented pasts. Marcus is a recovering drug addict who lost his wife and son in a car accident six years ago and is still over shaken by grief, guilt, and shame. While working as 911 dispatcher, he receives a call from Rebecca who's fighting to survive with her two children. Marcus is reminded of his past failure to save his wife and son and takes it upon himself to rescue Rebecca and her children.
Characters:
I found Marcus to be believable and real. I never thought I would feel such sadness for a drug addict, but my heart went out to him. I did, however, have a slight problem with Rebecca. I found her to be a tad weak and gullible (from her abusive past), and she did irate me at times.
My feelings:
Wow, I was surprised at Tardif's ability to instill such emotion. Another pleasant surprise was developing the connection I did with the characters. Because it is written in third person and I wasn't expecting such a strong connection, as you would, if it were written in first person. I was... submerged (hehe see what I did there). It's definitely action-packed and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a thriller with romance.
*This book was given to me for review. All opinions are my own. *
Characters:
I found Marcus to be believable and real. I never thought I would feel such sadness for a drug addict, but my heart went out to him. I did, however, have a slight problem with Rebecca. I found her to be a tad weak and gullible (from her abusive past), and she did irate me at times.
My feelings:
Wow, I was surprised at Tardif's ability to instill such emotion. Another pleasant surprise was developing the connection I did with the characters. Because it is written in third person and I wasn't expecting such a strong connection, as you would, if it were written in first person. I was... submerged (hehe see what I did there). It's definitely action-packed and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a thriller with romance.
*This book was given to me for review. All opinions are my own. *
March 3, 2013
I loved this book! The story-line really pulls the reader in very quickly. The characters were very well developed. I really sympathized a lot with Marcus and everything he had endured. I was really rooting for him to find some happiness in his life after everything he went through. One of the things I really enjoyed about this story was that the characters were very realistic. They were put in real life situations. There was a great amount of suspense and mystery to the story too! Towards the ending, I thought I knew who was behind the submerged incident, but I was very wrong. The author totally took me on a whole different twist!
Cheryl Kaye Tardiff is a author I will be reading more on! I highly recommend Submerged to readers who love suspense & thriller type books. You will not be disappointed!
Cheryl Kaye Tardiff is a author I will be reading more on! I highly recommend Submerged to readers who love suspense & thriller type books. You will not be disappointed!
March 11, 2013
** I was given a copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review**
First off, this was a breath of fresh air on the thriller homefront. Ms. Tardif has created a story that is a gripping, nail-biting, roller-coaster ride of thrills. When I started reading this book, I could not tear myself away. (I have been on a great roll lately!)
The Characters are real, you feel with them, they are flawed, not perfect characters, that add that much more to the story.
Definitely a book I will read again, and I am off to look for more of Ms.Tardif's works.
Well done! :)
First off, this was a breath of fresh air on the thriller homefront. Ms. Tardif has created a story that is a gripping, nail-biting, roller-coaster ride of thrills. When I started reading this book, I could not tear myself away. (I have been on a great roll lately!)
The Characters are real, you feel with them, they are flawed, not perfect characters, that add that much more to the story.
Definitely a book I will read again, and I am off to look for more of Ms.Tardif's works.
Well done! :)
April 1, 2013
Since I read "Children of the Fog,"I was in great anticipation to read "Submerged." I was not disappointed. I felt each character's feelings and anxiety as they deal with their problems and fears. It kept me in suspense as to what was coming next. This book was very well written and I really enjoyed reading another Cheryl Tardif story. Keep writing and I will keep reading.
January 6, 2014
VERY LIGHT... ok if ur looking something to read on a plane..
quite predictable.. really cannot understand what the other reviewers were on about.. simply another predictable, womens romance thriller...
quite predictable.. really cannot understand what the other reviewers were on about.. simply another predictable, womens romance thriller...
March 23, 2013
This is the first book I've read by this author and I was really impressed. A good cast of characters and a riveting story kept me hooked from start to finish. I'll be looking for more from her.
November 26, 2015
Good read.
March 2, 2021
After reading Children of the Fog by this same author, I was weary of reading Submerged, but decided (years after loading it on my Kindle) that I will finally give it a chance. Not too bad. It has a good amount of suspense and the writing isn't terrible. The characters are okay and somewhat likable, but the romance is a bit too cheesy for my taste. Good, but predictable ending. Worth the read though.
March 22, 2013
There’s something to be said about a book that you decide to read on a whim hoping that it’s at least half-decent. I’m happy to say that this novel definitely surpassed all my expectations as this is a terrific, thought-provoking, and suspense-filled thriller that keeps you engaged from beginning to end. Included are likeable and well-developed characters that come across and feel so realistic; my favourite being Marcus, the “superhero” of the story.
The two protagonists at the heart of the story is Marcus and Rebecca, two people who are far from perfect, definitely flawed, and both harbouring a lot of regrets of past decisions but in the end able to move on. I love that there was no bullshit with either of them; there’s no miscommunicated or misunderstood scenario that would have one of them quickly call it quits, yell or shout, and/or take off with the wrong assumption. Talk about refreshing. They both enter a relationship knowing everything there is to know about the other, putting everything out there on the table, nothing hidden, no secrets, and still entering a relationship full of hope, understanding, and eventually love. All of the above a true testament to the author’s wonderful writing.
Even hours after I’ve finished this novel I’m still thinking about one element that really stood out for me. We all have opinions when it comes to those who have serious addictions, whether it is gambling, drugs, or alcohol. Rebecca’s soon-to-be ex-husband, Wesley, has a gambling addiction that has brought nothing but misery to her and the kids. Knowing full well that Marcus had a drug-addiction and still fights it on a daily basis, Rebecca still enters into a relationship with him. Would I have done the same thing in her position? I have no idea. Definitely a good sign in my books when it’s got me thinking of some of the issues presented in the story.
Though considered a mystery/suspense/thriller genre, there is a hint of paranormal and a bit of romance thrown into the mix.
The two protagonists at the heart of the story is Marcus and Rebecca, two people who are far from perfect, definitely flawed, and both harbouring a lot of regrets of past decisions but in the end able to move on. I love that there was no bullshit with either of them; there’s no miscommunicated or misunderstood scenario that would have one of them quickly call it quits, yell or shout, and/or take off with the wrong assumption. Talk about refreshing. They both enter a relationship knowing everything there is to know about the other, putting everything out there on the table, nothing hidden, no secrets, and still entering a relationship full of hope, understanding, and eventually love. All of the above a true testament to the author’s wonderful writing.
Even hours after I’ve finished this novel I’m still thinking about one element that really stood out for me. We all have opinions when it comes to those who have serious addictions, whether it is gambling, drugs, or alcohol. Rebecca’s soon-to-be ex-husband, Wesley, has a gambling addiction that has brought nothing but misery to her and the kids. Knowing full well that Marcus had a drug-addiction and still fights it on a daily basis, Rebecca still enters into a relationship with him. Would I have done the same thing in her position? I have no idea. Definitely a good sign in my books when it’s got me thinking of some of the issues presented in the story.
Though considered a mystery/suspense/thriller genre, there is a hint of paranormal and a bit of romance thrown into the mix.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2013
I really enjoyed most of this book. I loved the characters, and I felt for Marcus and his pain, even when I wanted to reach into the book and smack him. The same with Rebecca, mostly because at a certain point they both realized that they were attracted to each other but they didn't think the other person felt the same way, so they didn't want to say anything. What is this, a Jane Austen novel? It seriously reminded me of reading Jane Austen's books (I always wanted to smack her characters, too). Those characters always found out that they were in love with each other eventually anyway, in spite of their hesitation, and they wound up together in the end, so as much as I wanted Rebecca and Marcus to quit beating around the bush, I figured they would eventually figure things out. I think Jane Austen would have been proud.
The best part of the book for me was the rescue sequence when Rebecca and her two kids were trapped in a car submerged in a river and Marcus had to save them. Talk about a nightmare! I was riveted during those scenes and I couldn't put the book down. I felt like the book lagged a bit after the hospital scene where supposedly the murderer was discovered, but we the readers know that something else is going on and we have to wait for the police to figure that out. It seriously felt like they gave up investigating to wander around and do other things, which was frustrating. Good thing our characters eventually figured out what was going on, since the police didn't seem to want to do their jobs there.
My only real complaint was the ending of this book. It felt kind of clunky, like the book ended, and then there was an epilogue that really didn't wrap up very well. I understand the need for closure, but it really did feel like the book ended and then went on for like ten more unnecessary pages. I felt the same way about "The girl with the Dragon Tattoo," though, so this book is in good company. That's a small quibble for me, and I really enjoyed this book otherwise, so I highly recommend it.
The best part of the book for me was the rescue sequence when Rebecca and her two kids were trapped in a car submerged in a river and Marcus had to save them. Talk about a nightmare! I was riveted during those scenes and I couldn't put the book down. I felt like the book lagged a bit after the hospital scene where supposedly the murderer was discovered, but we the readers know that something else is going on and we have to wait for the police to figure that out. It seriously felt like they gave up investigating to wander around and do other things, which was frustrating. Good thing our characters eventually figured out what was going on, since the police didn't seem to want to do their jobs there.
My only real complaint was the ending of this book. It felt kind of clunky, like the book ended, and then there was an epilogue that really didn't wrap up very well. I understand the need for closure, but it really did feel like the book ended and then went on for like ten more unnecessary pages. I felt the same way about "The girl with the Dragon Tattoo," though, so this book is in good company. That's a small quibble for me, and I really enjoyed this book otherwise, so I highly recommend it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2013
You don't just read a Tardif book, you live it! Awesome.
From Whale Song to Children of the Fog, Cheryl Kaye Tardif has consistently taken us on many exciting journeys. Different stories, but always with something new to learn, a fact I enjoy. Now suddenly we find ourselves immersed in her latest book "Submerged." Once again she allows us to get to know the new characters then plunges us into terror and keeps our hearts pounding. There are many heroes in this book, including a very convincing ghost, and hints of other paranormal activities.
Rebecca has no idea she has anything to fear. All she wants is some peace of mind, a couple of days of rest and solitude away from home as she waits for her husband to sign their divorce papers. A small hitch in her plans when her sister can not keep her children for the weekend means that she will have to take them with her.
"Submerged" dishes up a dash of reality, some pinches of the paranormal, a splash of romance and mixes it into a heart-wrenching terror-filled plot that will have you on the edge of your seat. Will the broken "superhero" Marcus arrive in time to save Rebecca and her children? Is it possible to find a new beginning after deep trauma and guilt? You don't read a Tardif book, you live it. With a deft hand she has us caring what happens to her characters. A taut suspenseful plot to rev up the adrenaline.
March 9, 2013
A Tardif masterwork
Simply put, there are few writers in this genre of suspense thrillers that can match not only the unique sense of story but also the masterful way in which that story is woven into an intricate tapestry with the skill the Cheryl Kay Tardif continues to display. Reading this tale - SUBMERGED - is like finding two ends of wire, knowing that one is a positive and one a negative, and then trying to figure out how to put them together to produce the energy that exudes from Tardif's writing.
The major characters here are both bruised; Marcus, a paramedic, grieves his family killed in a car accident and attempts to resolve that grief in the quagmire of prescription opioids, a trait that removes him from his job and replaces his desire to be human caretaker with the rather sterile job of being a 911 dispatcher. Enter Rebecca Kingston who yearns for relief from an abusive marriage and in her attempt to drive to some Gilead she is in a tragic car accident - her only connect for help is her cell phone and of course who answers her plea for rescue???
To take the reader further than that would be to possibly ruin the suspense and resolution of the story. But that should be enough to share a hint at the clever, concerned concept of the tale. But nothing can prepare the first time Tardif reader with the quality of writing that takes us to the end of this book waiting to be a movie.
Grady Harp
Simply put, there are few writers in this genre of suspense thrillers that can match not only the unique sense of story but also the masterful way in which that story is woven into an intricate tapestry with the skill the Cheryl Kay Tardif continues to display. Reading this tale - SUBMERGED - is like finding two ends of wire, knowing that one is a positive and one a negative, and then trying to figure out how to put them together to produce the energy that exudes from Tardif's writing.
The major characters here are both bruised; Marcus, a paramedic, grieves his family killed in a car accident and attempts to resolve that grief in the quagmire of prescription opioids, a trait that removes him from his job and replaces his desire to be human caretaker with the rather sterile job of being a 911 dispatcher. Enter Rebecca Kingston who yearns for relief from an abusive marriage and in her attempt to drive to some Gilead she is in a tragic car accident - her only connect for help is her cell phone and of course who answers her plea for rescue???
To take the reader further than that would be to possibly ruin the suspense and resolution of the story. But that should be enough to share a hint at the clever, concerned concept of the tale. But nothing can prepare the first time Tardif reader with the quality of writing that takes us to the end of this book waiting to be a movie.
Grady Harp
March 28, 2013
SUBMERGED by Chery Kaye Tardif is a fast paced,action filled Psychological thriller/suspense set in Cadomin and Eaton,AB. You will be engrossed from the first sentence to the last page. Filled with regret,grief,sorrow,danger,secrets,guilt,loss, betrayal,redemption,and second chances. Can a new love be blossoming between Marcus Taylor and Rebecca Kingsley? Marcus is a 911 dispatcher,with a truckload of guilt and loss,oh, and he is an ex-drug addict,struggling to move forward after his tragic loss. Rebecca is a mother of two,has an abusive, about to be, ex-husband and someone is out to kill her. Marcus is determined to save Rebecca and her two children at all cost. They have been pushed into the lake,with seconds ticking by,rescue may not be able to find them. Oh yeah, did I mention a ghost or two? With the mention of one of this author's previous books "Children of the Fog",ghost rarely disappear,if by the way you have not had a chance to read "Children of the Fog" I would recommend you do for another great read. Now back to "Submerged" you will be "Submerged" in this fast paced story of suspense,mystery and a bit of romance on the side blossoming. Ms. Tardif is a great storyteller. She pulls the reader into her story with her realistic characters,her plots are not only interesting but intriguing. A not to miss story! Received for an honest review from the author.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: SWEET
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, My Book Addiction Reviews
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: SWEET
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, My Book Addiction Reviews
December 4, 2015
I enjoyed this story (and loved the cover too and the "extra" line in the disclaimer as well) but it lost a star for me as it has a lot of nit-picking mistakes all the way through it.
Lots of missing apostrophes and then one dumped onto a word that didn't need one to add insult to injury !! A couple of lines were terrible English with words the wrong way round or just not right-such as "Carter filled that father-figure left void after her father's passing" or "Wanda had done the same thing every year since the death of her daughter and her grandson's death".
Then Rebecca asks her husband if he's mentioned to their son about getting a cellphone when her son had raised the subject in the first place-most peculiar ! There were a lot of instances where speechmarks got missed which made reading a tad confusing till you realised, works was used instead of work, and instead of an, ringer and not wringer, the word a was missed from a couple of sentences and then the was as well twice just for some variation.
Some scenes with Marcus and Shipley his boss I found a little unbelievable. He wouldn't have spoken to him like that in the real world and it was written as though Marcus had only just started his 911 job when he'd been there 5 years to my understanding.
As I say, the story kept my interest which is just as well as otherwise I'd have packed it in because the lack of proper editing did begin to wear me down.
Lots of missing apostrophes and then one dumped onto a word that didn't need one to add insult to injury !! A couple of lines were terrible English with words the wrong way round or just not right-such as "Carter filled that father-figure left void after her father's passing" or "Wanda had done the same thing every year since the death of her daughter and her grandson's death".
Then Rebecca asks her husband if he's mentioned to their son about getting a cellphone when her son had raised the subject in the first place-most peculiar ! There were a lot of instances where speechmarks got missed which made reading a tad confusing till you realised, works was used instead of work, and instead of an, ringer and not wringer, the word a was missed from a couple of sentences and then the was as well twice just for some variation.
Some scenes with Marcus and Shipley his boss I found a little unbelievable. He wouldn't have spoken to him like that in the real world and it was written as though Marcus had only just started his 911 job when he'd been there 5 years to my understanding.
As I say, the story kept my interest which is just as well as otherwise I'd have packed it in because the lack of proper editing did begin to wear me down.
May 10, 2013
What a suspenseful read!
This novel highlighted some of my fears. After i finished reading it, i regretted the fact that i didn't take swimming lessons in high school lol
It might as well had been Friday the 13th.
Everything started good for Rebecca that Friday morning. She was looking forward to her vacation away from home, her kids and her soon to be ex husband. But due to some circumstances, she must take her children with her.
What happens next is heartbreaking.
What do you do when you find yourself trapped inside your car, submerged under water?
Feeling helpless she does the one thing she is able to do, calls 911. She finds comfort in this stranger. Even though she is very much aware that this might be the last person she talks to, that voice at the other end of the call gives her hope. Hope to stay alive.
Marcus, the 911 dispatcher, answers the call. Rebecca now depends on him for survival. He must help her keep calm for the sake of herself and her children.
Can he keep them alive long enough to be rescued?
***
There's so much i want to say but I'll hold back, due to spoilers(which i am not fond of)
Cheryl K. Tardif knows got to deliver a well thought out story. The characters are easily likeable and relatable.
Highly recommend it!
Quote from Submerged,
"Life is for the Living"
This novel highlighted some of my fears. After i finished reading it, i regretted the fact that i didn't take swimming lessons in high school lol
It might as well had been Friday the 13th.
Everything started good for Rebecca that Friday morning. She was looking forward to her vacation away from home, her kids and her soon to be ex husband. But due to some circumstances, she must take her children with her.
What happens next is heartbreaking.
What do you do when you find yourself trapped inside your car, submerged under water?
Feeling helpless she does the one thing she is able to do, calls 911. She finds comfort in this stranger. Even though she is very much aware that this might be the last person she talks to, that voice at the other end of the call gives her hope. Hope to stay alive.
Marcus, the 911 dispatcher, answers the call. Rebecca now depends on him for survival. He must help her keep calm for the sake of herself and her children.
Can he keep them alive long enough to be rescued?
***
There's so much i want to say but I'll hold back, due to spoilers(which i am not fond of)
Cheryl K. Tardif knows got to deliver a well thought out story. The characters are easily likeable and relatable.
Highly recommend it!
Quote from Submerged,
"Life is for the Living"
June 20, 2019
This was a nicely-paced thriller. Although I couldn't spare time to read it in one sitting (I know, I have time management issues), the story was exciting enough for me to read through bits of it quickly when I could. I liked how the story went back and forth between the two main characters' lives Marcus and Rebecca. I also liked how the story flowed and progressed very nicely with each scene making you more curious about the next. The author certainly knows how to make things thrilling and suspenseful. At first, you'd think you already knew who the real antagonist was, but the author added a twist that was surprising and yet made sense.
I liked that the characters felt very real and that none of them were too perfect or too evil. It was easy to relate to them and understand their motivations. I especially liked how the author developed Marcus's character, a recovering drug addict who hit rock bottom and is constantly haunted by the ghosts of his past. It was interesting to see him become a 'hero.'
If you like suspense novels and thrillers in general, I think you might enjoy this one!
I received a review copy of this book at no cost and with no obligations. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Blog post here.
I liked that the characters felt very real and that none of them were too perfect or too evil. It was easy to relate to them and understand their motivations. I especially liked how the author developed Marcus's character, a recovering drug addict who hit rock bottom and is constantly haunted by the ghosts of his past. It was interesting to see him become a 'hero.'
If you like suspense novels and thrillers in general, I think you might enjoy this one!
I received a review copy of this book at no cost and with no obligations. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Blog post here.
March 6, 2013
Cheryl very kindly gifted me a copy of Submerged and I began to read.....
I couldn't put it down. I have to warn you, the intense feeling of being trapped will grab you and will leave you wanting to read more, just like a drug...
My one phobia is to be trapped in a lift or a locked car and not being able to move or get out. Cheryl wrote this exact feeling in Submerged.
The more you read about the characters the more you got to know them.
Rebecca being trapped in her car, feeling helpless with her two children in the back and not being able to reach them, you willed her to get free.
Marcus and how he was feeling at the loss of his wife and son, feeling for him and wanting to tell him that everything would be OK.
Submerged is very well written, you never knew what was going to happen, I didn't even guess who was trying to run her off the road until the very last minute.
I didn't want the book to end, but I wanted to know how things would turn out, so here we are left with a catch twenty-two situation....
I think Submerged is well worth buying and reading.
There is an extract from one of her other books, Children of the Fog, which I now have to get a copy of as when it reached the end I wanted to read more :(
I couldn't put it down. I have to warn you, the intense feeling of being trapped will grab you and will leave you wanting to read more, just like a drug...
My one phobia is to be trapped in a lift or a locked car and not being able to move or get out. Cheryl wrote this exact feeling in Submerged.
The more you read about the characters the more you got to know them.
Rebecca being trapped in her car, feeling helpless with her two children in the back and not being able to reach them, you willed her to get free.
Marcus and how he was feeling at the loss of his wife and son, feeling for him and wanting to tell him that everything would be OK.
Submerged is very well written, you never knew what was going to happen, I didn't even guess who was trying to run her off the road until the very last minute.
I didn't want the book to end, but I wanted to know how things would turn out, so here we are left with a catch twenty-two situation....
I think Submerged is well worth buying and reading.
There is an extract from one of her other books, Children of the Fog, which I now have to get a copy of as when it reached the end I wanted to read more :(
March 15, 2013
Marcus Taylor barely gets through each day--the pain of losing his wife and son almost too much to bear. Now working as a 911 operator, he does what he can to make up for his own mistakes.
Rebecca Kingston, along with her two kids, is heading away for the weekend--away from the pain of her abusive marriage. Suddenly a truck rams into her. She calls 911, and Marcus answers. Things go from bad to worse, and Rebecca finds herself fighting for her life as well as the lives of her children. Can Marcus get to her in time? If he does, can they figure out who wanted her dead?
From the first page, the author builds the intensity and suspense. But the story's as much about the characters as it is the action. Rebecca is a mom with the strength to leave an abusive husband, and Marcus is battling demons most of us couldn't process. Marcus's pain was palpable, and I found myself choking up while reading.
I recommend Submerged to readers who enjoy a storyline that keeps them on the edge of their seat while also giving them characters to care about.
Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.
Rebecca Kingston, along with her two kids, is heading away for the weekend--away from the pain of her abusive marriage. Suddenly a truck rams into her. She calls 911, and Marcus answers. Things go from bad to worse, and Rebecca finds herself fighting for her life as well as the lives of her children. Can Marcus get to her in time? If he does, can they figure out who wanted her dead?
From the first page, the author builds the intensity and suspense. But the story's as much about the characters as it is the action. Rebecca is a mom with the strength to leave an abusive husband, and Marcus is battling demons most of us couldn't process. Marcus's pain was palpable, and I found myself choking up while reading.
I recommend Submerged to readers who enjoy a storyline that keeps them on the edge of their seat while also giving them characters to care about.
Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.
April 13, 2013
This tale of death, survival and working to overcome horrific obstacles had me full "submerged" in the characters and their tale.
When 911 phone operator gets a call he knows immediately he can change the life of another but doesn't realize how quickly this call would change his own life. Tardif's brilliance was eminent in sucking me into the situation while she described the lives of two main characters simultaneously.
Being a paramedic is challenging, just as is being a 911 operator but being one still living with the guilt of the death of another seems unbearable but Marcus teachers us about belief, responsibility and determination. At the same time Rebecca teaches us the importance of self-worth, dedication and staying calm when everything else screams hectic.
We can all learn a bit from the tragedy of others and Submerged does this by making each character our best friend, spouse, parent or child and telling their story without anything but believable faith.
Thanks for reading,
Sarah Butland author Arm Farm, Sending You Sammy, Brain Tales - Volume One
When 911 phone operator gets a call he knows immediately he can change the life of another but doesn't realize how quickly this call would change his own life. Tardif's brilliance was eminent in sucking me into the situation while she described the lives of two main characters simultaneously.
Being a paramedic is challenging, just as is being a 911 operator but being one still living with the guilt of the death of another seems unbearable but Marcus teachers us about belief, responsibility and determination. At the same time Rebecca teaches us the importance of self-worth, dedication and staying calm when everything else screams hectic.
We can all learn a bit from the tragedy of others and Submerged does this by making each character our best friend, spouse, parent or child and telling their story without anything but believable faith.
Thanks for reading,
Sarah Butland author Arm Farm, Sending You Sammy, Brain Tales - Volume One
March 7, 2013
SUBMERGED by Cheryl Kaye Tardif
Accidents happen and 9-1-1 is called. This is what happens when a woman and her two children are driven into a river and need help quickly. The 9-1-1 dispatcher helps by keeping her calm but who knows what will happen. The mystery lies in who wanted her dead.
Then there is Marcus the 9-1-1 dispatcher who is submerged by a drug addiction and years of guilt. He does what no other person is able to do and rescues the people from the submerged car putting his own life and his job at risk. He was just doing the right thing.
Submerged is gripping and suspenseful. I could not put the book down. The story deals with a lot of issues and to the forefront is; addiction both gambling and drugs. It also deals with abuse and going beyond the call of duty. It also talks about greed with in family members and what it causes people to do. Submerged will keep you on the edge of your seat and wanting more. I give this read 5 stars.
Accidents happen and 9-1-1 is called. This is what happens when a woman and her two children are driven into a river and need help quickly. The 9-1-1 dispatcher helps by keeping her calm but who knows what will happen. The mystery lies in who wanted her dead.
Then there is Marcus the 9-1-1 dispatcher who is submerged by a drug addiction and years of guilt. He does what no other person is able to do and rescues the people from the submerged car putting his own life and his job at risk. He was just doing the right thing.
Submerged is gripping and suspenseful. I could not put the book down. The story deals with a lot of issues and to the forefront is; addiction both gambling and drugs. It also deals with abuse and going beyond the call of duty. It also talks about greed with in family members and what it causes people to do. Submerged will keep you on the edge of your seat and wanting more. I give this read 5 stars.
March 25, 2013
Submerged is a tense drama/mystery/thriller that held that tension through most of the story. All of the characters, both good and bad, are believable. The main character is Marcus Taylor, a recovering drug addict and disgraced EMT, working under supervision as a 911 operator. Unfortunately, his boss hates him and is trying to set him up for failure. Marcus takes a frightening 911 call that could destroy him or save him emotionally.
There was truly an edge-of-your-seat tension through the book as Marcus tries to help a woman involved in an auto accident. It is also a light romance, mostly focused on both of their troubled pasts. I have to say I didn’t expect to enjoy the book as much as I did. It held my interest from beginning to end and I would definitely read more books by Cheryl Kaye Tardif. While the end may not have been a total surprise, it was certainly a satisfying ending.
There was truly an edge-of-your-seat tension through the book as Marcus tries to help a woman involved in an auto accident. It is also a light romance, mostly focused on both of their troubled pasts. I have to say I didn’t expect to enjoy the book as much as I did. It held my interest from beginning to end and I would definitely read more books by Cheryl Kaye Tardif. While the end may not have been a total surprise, it was certainly a satisfying ending.
March 15, 2013
Reading ''Submerged'' prove to be an expanding-genre-experience.
I'm your average paranormal addict and since yesterday, after reading Ms. Tardif's novel, I knew that that was about to change.
Although I was unable to place the book under the terryfing thriller tug, as mentioned in the description, I got entagled in its mysterious web of deception, faith, redemption and love.
Ultimately, I think it is a book that is focused more on a person's true resolution to change their ways and become the person they should have been, prior to the gravitating situation that has messed up with their reality perception.
The author's narrating system is one of significant prevelance that keeps you to your toes, from page one to the very end.
All in all, it is a very intriguing read that any mystery/thriller lover will surely enjoy.
I'm your average paranormal addict and since yesterday, after reading Ms. Tardif's novel, I knew that that was about to change.
Although I was unable to place the book under the terryfing thriller tug, as mentioned in the description, I got entagled in its mysterious web of deception, faith, redemption and love.
Ultimately, I think it is a book that is focused more on a person's true resolution to change their ways and become the person they should have been, prior to the gravitating situation that has messed up with their reality perception.
The author's narrating system is one of significant prevelance that keeps you to your toes, from page one to the very end.
All in all, it is a very intriguing read that any mystery/thriller lover will surely enjoy.
March 25, 2013
This is the first book I have read by Cheryl Kaye Tardiff . I found this book as a free e book on Amazon but will be looking for more of her books in the future.
The story is about a 911 dispatcher who is a recovering addict. While on duty he answers a call from a woman (with her 2 kids) was run off the road and their car is slowly filling with water. She has no idea where she is. He talks to her while frantically trying to get a hint of where she is. It's his worse nightmare happening.
The book was well written. I liked the way the story defined the 911's operator's life story and you felt like you knew him.
Unfortunately, I didn't get the sense of the driver's story. It was really hard to feel like you could understand her life.
I just didn't get much as to what drove the characters other than him.
It could have just been me. I will be trying another story by Cheryl Tardif.
The story is about a 911 dispatcher who is a recovering addict. While on duty he answers a call from a woman (with her 2 kids) was run off the road and their car is slowly filling with water. She has no idea where she is. He talks to her while frantically trying to get a hint of where she is. It's his worse nightmare happening.
The book was well written. I liked the way the story defined the 911's operator's life story and you felt like you knew him.
Unfortunately, I didn't get the sense of the driver's story. It was really hard to feel like you could understand her life.
I just didn't get much as to what drove the characters other than him.
It could have just been me. I will be trying another story by Cheryl Tardif.
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